Field Demonstration of a Novel Biotreatment Process for Perchlorate Reduction in Groundwater
Abstract
A technology demonstration was conducted at the Well #2 in Rialto, CA, to treat perchlorate-contaminated groundwater using a novel biological treatment system. The new treatment relies on autotrophic perchlorate reducing bacteria immobilized on zero valent iron (ZVI). As ZVI corrodes in water, hydrogen is released from the reduction of water, which is then used by perchlorate-reducing bacteria as a source of electrons. Extensive research in the laboratory had shown that the process was very promising. Also, hydrogen has significant advantages compared to organic carbon as an electron donor. It minimizes biomass growth and has a low potential for disinfection by-products precursors compared to organic substrates such as acetate. Other potential advantages include the possible reduction (biotic or abiotic) of nitrate, trichloroethylene (TCE), hexavalent chromium, and the possible control by metals by adsorption. The main objective of this project was to test and demonstrate the efficacy of the ZVI-supported biological reduction of perchlorate. Additional objectives were to obtain pertinent data that will guide full-scale design and operation, provide relevant data for treatment cost estimation and comparison, provide the necessary data leading to possible permitting of the process by California Department of Public Health (DPH), and disseminate the results in various forms to promote technology transfer. As will be described below, significant treatment performance issues occurred that motivated further laboratory studies to help identify the causes of the problems observed in the field.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA551870
Entities
People
- Marc A Deshusses
Organizations
- Duke University